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Classic/Antique Car Repair/Ignition switch burning wire?

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Expert: - 4/29/2008


Question
1970 Dodge Dart w/slant 6 (198 cubic) When I turn the key to start the car it does not turn over,but my lights and all other accessories seem to work until I turn the key back to the off position and then a wire burns coming off the fire wall. This wire that burns also goes to the starter relay ? Is my key switch going bad ? Thanks, Your help is appreciated.

Answer
Hi Terry:
No, you have got some naked wires that are touching some where and when you engage the starter, the heat generated from the starting process is heating up these wires. Find all burned wires (including starter wires to battery) and replace ALL of them. The touching wires are shorting out the starter contact. This may have damage the starter, but you can't be sure until you solve the wire problem.

Also, if there are no touching wires, that usually means your starter is burned out or your battery has too many amps for the starter. Your battery should be putting out 30 to 40 amps for that car. A 70 to 80 amps battery will cause problems.

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Vern Bullock

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Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

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I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

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I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

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